The fresh produce industry faces inherent challenges around perishability and waste management. For Jumani, success requires more than operational efficiency — it requires alignment across teams and clear long-term planning.

Sustainable waste management demands:

• Strategic decision-making at leadership level

• Cross-functional collaboration

• Investment in both people and technology

Without cultural alignment and strong execution, sustainability targets remain theoretical.

A key highlight of the event for Jumani was the discussion around net zero strategies and ESG implementation.

She emphasised that sustainability plans are feasible — but require patience, consistency and long-term commitment. Companies must integrate environmental targets into daily operations, rather than treating them as standalone initiatives.

Dubai provides a compelling environment for these conversations.

With innovation driven at a national level, companies operating in the region are encouraged to adopt long-term strategic thinking. This ecosystem supports businesses looking to embed sustainability into supply chain and retail operations.

For fresh produce retailers in particular, balancing operational performance with environmental responsibility is not optional — it is central to future competitiveness.

Ultimately, sustainable growth requires aligning:

• Human capital

• Technology investment

• Operational processes

• Long-term strategy

When these elements are integrated, retailers can reduce waste, improve resilience and strengthen brand credibility.

At DELIVER Middle East, leaders like Halima Jumani demonstrated that sustainability in fresh retail is not aspirational — it is actionable.